[PS5] Potionomics: Ultimate Edition Review

Potionomics: Masterwork Edition is the latest offering from Voracious Games and XSEED Games, now making its debut on the PlayStation 5. In this game, you step into the shoes of Sylvia, a young up-and-coming potion maker who is thrust into an unexpected adventure. It all starts when you receive a letter from your Uncle Oswald, who has settled on the mystical Island of Rafta to build a stunning potion shop. But life takes an unexpected twist—shortly after the grand opening, Uncle Oswald passes away, leaving you the shop to manage.

Legal obligations require you to travel to this far-off island to claim your inheritance. However, the Island of Rafta isn’t just any ordinary place. Its peculiarities abound, and so do the challenges. Oh, and did I mention the debt? Your late uncle took out hefty loans for the shop’s construction, leaving you with an eye-watering 1,000,000 gold coins to pay off. Otherwise, you’ll lose the shop, and if that’s not enough, you’ll end up working for the legal firm until the debt is deemed settled.

Upon reaching Rafta, you find the potion shop in complete disrepair. With no time to waste, you meet Helena, a mysterious witch, who reveals your uncle’s massive financial burden now rests on your shoulders. Your journey in Potionomics begins here as you strive to save your shop from the brink of collapse.

As you dive into the game, you have the option to choose from three different difficulty levels: Cozy, Classic, and Capitalism. Cozy mode is perfect for a leisurely playthrough with no travel restrictions and simpler battles. Classic offers the intended balanced experience, ideal for those looking for a fair challenge. If you’re seeking the ultimate test, Capitalism ups the ante with tougher opponents and steeper potion requirements. There’s also a romantic element to explore—whether you opt for One Love, focusing on a single relationship, or Free Love, allowing you to explore multiple romantic interests.

Helena becomes your first customer and guides you through a quick tutorial where you attempt to sell her a potion. You learn how to utilize cards, which can either help or hinder your potion-selling endeavors. Each card represents a different action or strategy, and selecting the wrong ones can lead to increased stress levels for Sylvia. But fear not, as you progress, better cards will come your way to aid in sales.

And then, enter Owl—a literal talking owl who crash-lands into your life. He’s here to teach you that all hope is not lost. Five competitions are due over the next fifty days where you’ll showcase your potion-making skills against others. With 10,000 gold coins at stake in the first contest, it’s a perfect opportunity to chip away at that towering debt.

Once you get the shop looking somewhat presentable, it’s time to start brewing. Utilizing the ingredients left by your uncle, you tap into the magic of Rafta. The process of potion crafting relies on magimins, magical elements inherent in every ingredient. These must be carefully balanced to ensure potions of high quality and value.

Strategically placing potions on upgraded shelves increases their selling potential. Since time is of the essence, managing your daily activities wisely is crucial. You’ll need fresh ingredients, readily available through vendors like Quinn or quests from the new guild member, Mint. Each task consumes valuable time slots, so plan accordingly for maximum efficiency.

In Potionomics, earning trophies is part of the fun. With achievements ranging from narrative milestones to accumulating wealth and crafting quantities of potions, there’s plenty to keep you busy—as if the massive debt weren’t enough!

The game shines with its delightful visuals and engaging voice acting. Characters like Sylvia, Helena, and Owl are beautifully animated, enhanced by a charming chibi art style you see throughout your daily potion-making hustle.

In conclusion, Potionomics: Masterwork Edition immerses you in a whimsical world where strategy, time management, and a touch of alchemy are essential to saving your shop from financial ruin. Priced at $29.99, it’s ready to enchant players on PlayStation 5. Are you ready to brew your way to freedom?

This review was based on a PlayStation 5 copy provided by XSEED Games.